On the outskirts of Carmona, Spain is the Carmona Archaeological Complex that consists of pre-Roman, and Roman ruins. In the bright Andalusian sun, the ruins of a Roman amphitheater first attracted our attention.
As large as a baseball field, looking at the remains made me wonder what type of theater was displayed at this site. Built in the classical Roman style of gladiator arenas, this amphitheater was built into the rock with ashlar crowns. Partially discovered in 1885, excavations began in 1970. Crossing the road to the Museum and visitor’s center, we began our walk through the Roman ruins. Bright succulent flowers greeted us, bringing cheer to the otherwise somber visit.
As the first stop along the walk was the circular Mausoleum.
With its vaulted underground chamber and entrance in the shape of a shaft, we began to wonder just how small were the Romans.
Continuing on, we arrived to the Tomb of the Elephant. At first we believed that when the tomb was excavated a real elephant’s remains were discovered. But actually, what was found was a stone carving of an elephant. it is thought that this tomb was created to be a sanctuary to worship Cybele and Attis.
We really wanted to be able to go into these underground tombs and structures, but each entrance was blocked. So we continued on through the complex looking at ruins here, there and everywhere.
Yep..it’s another Roman ruin, but it was time to return to the farm as we were scheduled for an afternoon trail ride. Today was to be a ride through the eucalyptus trees to visit a Roman bridge that is still in use today. It is striking to consider that the Roman’s construction ability was so stellar that thousands of years later, their bridges are still in tact and functioning.
I learned something new today about Carmona. Soon we will be able to enjoy the beauty of Carmona as a film crew recently visited and spent a week there filming. The film is a portrayal of Simon Bolivar, titled “Libratador.” This internationally created film used several horses from the Epona Equestrian Center, including several staff members. Carmona will be doubling as a town in Columbia and a grand celebration with the arrival of Simon Bolivar’s army.
It will be exciting to see this film once it is out to visit Carmona once more.
Categories: About, Equitrekking, Spain
Emily Carter ~ Nature as Art 
Very interesting post and some beautiful shots… 😉
Hi Bella
Lovely photographs as always. I have used a pink flamingo photograph on soulsnet.com. I hope you like it. This really is the last last day in the French cafe. Back to the UK tomorrow!!
Have a great day.
Corinne
Thank you so very much Corinne, it is such a lovely post and I appreciate the link back to my page. Good luck with your trip back home.
Wonderful pictures! The chamber was interesting and the bright succulent flowers were gorgeous!
Merci Petit ! The flowers are one of my favorites as well.
Just beautiful! Amazing to think of the time…the history, and what this place has seen.
It really is mind boggling just how long humankind has lived in that area. Makes us seem so insignificant.
funny you delving into the Romans –my oldest son – who i have yet to meet – long story – is an ametuer – sorry my spelling – archeologist who was stationed in Germany until recently in the US Army—he excavated many Roman sites as well as Viking and Crusader sites from France to Italy —he even sent me some horseshoes and a hoof pick from the 11th-13th centuries
i loved exploring in Spain many years ago when i hitchhiked thru Europe thgere used to be a huge flea market in Barcelona where you could buy uniforms and atrifacts dating back to beyond the imagination
love your story and photographs
Your son has had such an incredibly fun job. A true Indiana Jones. You should take some photos of those horsey things and post them. I bet they are really fascinating.
Hitchhiking through Europe, wow..what an amazing experience. Thank you so much for taking the time to comment and take care. Bella
your photos are fabulous!
Thank you so much! Hope to see you back soon. Bella
Love Carmona, but I can’t even imagine how hot it is there now!!
Have you been? Carmona is awesome and yes! Andalucia bakes in the summer.
I have, and call nearby Sevilla my home. I escaped to Chicago for the summer, but the temps are hotter than usual here, too!
Beautiful! 🙂
Thank you Maggie!